Chapter 14
Ifeel him before I see him. It’s this strange sixth sense, an unexplainable tingling that comes over my body, alerting me to Brody’s presence. The air around me changes, and I glance over my shoulder to watch him striding through the door of Bay Roaster’s Café, the cute little coffee shop I discovered earlier in the week. I couldn’t bear another day of the plunger stuff Mae drinks. Brody lines up behind me, his clothes more casual today in faded jeans and a short-sleeved T-shirt.
“They have the best coffee in town,” I say, as if it’s the only reason we both find ourselves in the quaint coffee shop on a bright Saturday morning.
“I would have to agree, but that’s not why I’m here,” he says mysteriously, his eyes fixing on me a little too long for my liking.
I turn back around, a stupid grin on my face. I don’t even know why. It’s just him and the way he looks at me. He lights me up inside, even if he annoys me at the same time. The line moves forward, and I shuffle with it. I have some idea why he’s here. Because I’m ignoring his messages, and it’s almost impossible to hide from someone you’re avoiding in this town.
The young girl behind the counter, named Suzie according to her tag, sweeps her eyes over the man standing behind me, and I know exactly what she’s thinking. Brody is undeniably attractive, stupidly hot, and he’d be even better if he bothered to smile. Since working with him, I rarely get to see that dimply grin like I did the first night we met.
“What can I get for you, sugar?” Suzie mutters out, barely bothering to make eye contact with me. Instead, she chooses to bat her lashes flirtatiously at Brody.
“I’ll have a small double-shot latte with a splash of hazelnut syrup, please.”
“Sure thing.” She types the order into a computer.
I catch sight of the cakes in the glass cabinet, and the cinnamon pecan coffee cakes look mouth-watering. “Can I grab a slice of coffee cake as well? Just for the table over there.” I point to a small table in the far corner where I plan on sitting and enjoying my morning off with a book. I have a wedding tonight, so I start work at one this afternoon. I take my card out to pay, and Brody steps beside me, his shirt brushing my bare arm. I glance at him, wondering what he thinks he’s doing.
“I’ll have a flat white and a serving of the cake as well.” He hands over his card, as if he’s ordering and paying for me.
“What are you doing?” I mutter, confused.
“Joining you. I could do with a little tasty treat with my coffee this morning,” he says, as if it’s obvious. The way he looks at me makes me wonder if he is talking about the delicious baked goods or me. “Mae told me you would be here,” he explains.
I quirk my brow in question. Why was he at my house asking for my whereabouts? Suzie gazes at me with admiration, as if Im the luckiest girl alive, and she would trade anything to be in my shoes. She takes his card and processes the payment. I roll my eyes in his direction, knowing there is no point in fighting him on it. If Brody has made up his mind on something, it’s happening. I’ve learned that the hard way this week. After the car debacle, I really don’t have any fight left in me.
“Most people say thank you,” he mutters as I walk toward the table I was eyeing.
I take a seat with a view of the rest of the café, and he sits across from me. “Most bosses don’t crash their staff’s morning off.” I’ve spent the last two weeks working my ass off in my new job, while doing my best to avoid him around the hotel. During the day, I can do it no problem. But the nights are a different story. When I’m tucked up in bed all alone, I can’t help but open his text messages and smile to myself, knowing he’s lying in bed thinking of me just like I am him. Sometimes I indulge him and write back. Every day since my first night here it’s been the same, a late message with something from the day, like “nice pink shoes” or “skirts like the one you had on today should be illegal.” They started out super friendly, but over the last few days, they have intensified into extremely flirty.
“I thought you would have learned by now, Gigi. I’m not like most people. And I’m not your boss here, just an acquaintance sharing breakfast. It’s my morning off as well.” His lips twitch at the sides as if he’s trying to hide his smirk. He’s different today, he seems more playful. I’m curious about what’s gotten in to him.
“Is that right? I thought you would have better things to do with your free time than hang out with me.” I smile sweetly, if not a little sarcastically. It’s not that I don’t want to be in this man’s company. It’s the exact opposite. I’m drawn to him. Im confused because every fiber of my being warns me to stay away from him. But it’s not what I really want. I enjoy the way he watches me walking past him, the way he finds any reason he can to drop in to my office, and I especially enjoy his texts late at night. It makes me feel special. Even the overprotectiveness has a sort of charm to it that it shouldn’t. He has made it very obvious that there will never be anything between us other than a working relationship. But here we are—me pretending like I wish he wasn’t here and him paying for my breakfast and joining me like he wants something more, even though he shouldn’t.
“I can’t think of anything I would rather do.” He gazes at me like he wants to say something more but then stops himself. For two weeks now he’s been doing that, giving me these long, lingering looks that I don’t really understand. I wish he would just spit it out.
The server delivers our coffees and cake. It’s warm, and the sweet cinnamon scent coming off it is insanely yummy. I slide my plate closer, slicing my fork through the layers and taking a bite.
He sips his coffee, watching me as I place the fork in my mouth then lick it clean. I’m in baked-goods heaven. I don’t know what the people of Deception Bay put in their food, but it’s the best I have ever tasted.
“Are you all ready for tonight’s wedding?” he asks, and I realize this might be more of a work check-in than anything else. The thought disappoints me more than it should. The only thing I should be talking to him about is work, but for a second, I wanted a little something more—a glimpse of the man I met back in New York.
I wipe the corner of my mouth. “I thought you said this wasn’t a work chat.”
“It’s not. I was checking up on you, Gisele, the person, and how you’re going with your new job, not as your boss.”
I take a sip of my coffee, glancing back at him, trying to work him out. “I think so. I feel a bit better about it after last night’s and last weekend’s weddings running so smoothly.”
“You should. I heard from Elliot this morning, and he said you were impressive in how you dealt with anything that was thrown your way. You have a knack for dealing with difficult people,” he compliments me, a new warmth in his eyes. I have impressed him; that thought makes me feel more special than it should.
“Obviously.” I smirk at him, implying he is one of those people. “Tonight’s couple should be easy. They’re relaxed, just happy to be marrying their person. They’re really sweet.”
“Don’t tell me you’re a hopeless romantic who believes in the idea of finding your person and happily ever after?” He sounds disappointed in me.
I glare at him, a little disappointed myself. “Why doesn’t it surprise me you don’t believe in any of that?” I huff, turning my attention back to my food.
“I guess if I had good evidence it existed, then maybe I could believe it. But as it stands, I haven’t seen any proof.”
I finish the rest of my cake in two mouthfuls. He’s so cynical. I wonder what happened to him to make him that way. “Child of divorce?” I ask, curious.
“No, unfortunately for my mother.” Sadness sweeps over him. He looks vulnerable for the first time. He loves his mother, that’s sweet. Maybe some of that guy I first met is in there somewhere.
“What about your sister? She doesnt seem as opposed to the idea of love, she had the same parents,” I challenge him. I don’t want to know that he doesn’t believe in love, and I’m not even sure why. Im not looking for him to fall in love with me, but I guess I just feel sad for him. I like the idea that my other half is out there somewhere, and one day I will find him, and we’ll settle down together and share a life of happiness. It gives me hope. His sister is the same, I know she is.
“She’s just as bad as you. Reads too many of those things.” He motions to the book resting on the table under my phone.
His parents’ marriage must have been pretty ugly. Unless it’s something from his own past he’s talking about. “That’s sad, Brody. I’m sorry someone hurt you so badly you don’t think there is any possibility of finding your person,” I mutter out loud before I have the chance to stop the words.
“I was talking about my parents’ marriage,” he says a little too quickly.
“And growing old alone because you didn’t want to try and find something real and worth fighting for doesn’t look fun? Not for me. I want it all. That’s why I moved away from my life in the city; it didn’t feel like it fit me properly. I will forever keep searching for what does. And hopefully, I will find my person to share that life with.”
He looks me over, his gaze cynical. “I hope for your sake life doesn’t disappoint you.”
“Like it has you?” I ask a little more seriously. This guy gives me nothing much to go off, but I see that wounded look on his face. His hurt isn’t about what happened with his parents. He’s in his mid-thirties with no wife and no kids. Maybe he wanted something different for his life, but it just didn’t turn out the way he expected. I guess if I’m still alone when I get to be his age, I might feel the same, but I hope not. I hope I keep searching. Optimism has to be better than giving up and just being miserable with the hand you’ve been dealt.
A pretty blonde with a contagious smile gracefully approaches our table. Her eyes hold a glimmer of familiarity, as if I should instantly recognize her, but she’s a stranger to me, and the confusion must be obvious on my face as she stops at our table. I can’t place her.
“Are you Gigi Kelley? Can I get your autograph?” Her voice carries excitement as she hands over a program for Moulin Rouge.
My heart starts racing, and I instantly feel nauseous. “Excuse me?” I mutter.
“The Broadway star?” Her enthusiasm lingers, and I can feel the color draining from my face. Glancing at Brody, his expression mirrors my own—a mix of bewilderment and disbelief.
She looks between us, her gaze searching for recognition. “Th-th-the article from this morning’s paper?” she stutters out.
“Suzie, did you get this morning’s paper?” Brody calls to the girl behind the counter, panic in his voice.
I quickly sign the program to get rid of the fan. As Suzie hurries over with the paper, Brody flips through the pages until he finds what he’s looking for. He passes it over to me, and my picture stares back at me—the one my casting director took when I landed the role of Satine in Moulin Rouge.
Superstar in Our Midst: Broadway Sensation Gigi Kelley Takes Center Stage as Alexander Hotel’s New Wedding Planner
Deception Bay, the coastal haven known for its tranquility, is set to witness the union of Hollywood and Broadway glamour, as Gigi Kelley, daughter of acting icons Susan and Lawrence Kelley, steps into the limelight as the new wedding planner at the prestigious Alexander Hotel. The announcement has added an extra layer of excitement to the town, with residents thrilled to welcome the daughter of two legendary stars to their community.
The paper shakes in my hands as I read on. Sucking in labored breaths, I feel like I’m about to pass out. Brody reads over my shoulder, and the weight of the situation intensifies. I don’t want to go on, but I need to know what I’m up against.
Gigi Kelley’s stellar performances in Broadway classics like “Moulin Rouge” and “West Side Story” have solidified her reputation as a triple threat in the entertainment industry. Now, as Deception Bay’s premier wedding planner, Gigi’s dynamic skills promise to infuse weddings with a touch of theatrical flair, creating unforgettable moments for couples choosing The Alexander Hotel as their venue.
“We are delighted to welcome Gigi Kelley to Deception Bay and the Alexander Hotel family. Her extraordinary talent and experience in the world of Broadway promise to bring a unique and enchanting touch to the weddings hosted at our venue,” said the hotel’s spokesperson.
Local couples are already buzzing with excitement at the prospect of having a Broadway star curate their dream weddings. Social media is abuzz with posts expressing admiration for Gigi Kelley’s decision to embrace the charm of a small-town setting. The hashtag #GigiattheAlexander is trending as residents and fans share their anticipation for the upcoming weddings that will undoubtedly feature Gigi’s signature flair.
The Alexander Hotel is wasting no time in promoting its newfound gem, with plans for a grand opening event showcasing Gigi Kelley’s vision for weddings at the venue. The event promises to be a dazzling affair, offering a glimpse into the world of Broadway brought to the heart of Deception Bay.
Sweet Tea Scandals, Annabelle Grace Turner
“Fucking Prescott,” Brody growls under his breath, but I have no idea who he’s talking about.
I can’t even think about that. This is my worst nightmare. I need to get out of here before I fall apart. I stand in a rush and head straight for the door. I swiftly make my way to the town square, sensing Brody following me closely. Can’t he see I need to be alone?
Gently, he takes a hold of my arm. “Gisele.”
I turn around to face him. “Did you do this?” I stutter out, feeling angry tears welling in my eyes. It was either him or one of my new friends; they’re the only ones who knew. And it benefits him the most.
He looks hurt by my accusation, taking a step back from me. “No, I promised I wouldn’t tell a soul, and I didn’t.”
“Except by the time you made that promise, it was already too late because Parker and Paisley already knew.”
He shakes his head. “I have known them both a hell of a long time, and I know they wouldn’t have done this.”
“Who was the spokesperson? Emerson?” I demand. This is his business. This looks like good PR for them.
He takes my hand, his touch warm and reassuring as he searches my eyes with a seriousness that cuts through the chaos around us. “Emerson would never do something like this to you, either.”
Feeling the need for some distance, I pull my hand away and make my way to a nearby park bench, collapsing onto it. The weight of the situation hits me hard. “I’m right back to where I started, stuck in the expectation of who my parents are. Now everything I do in this job going forward will be because of who I am, not how good I am at my job,” I confess, my voice strained with emotion.
“That’s not true. I can see how hard you’ve worked the last couple of weeks. You’re doing an amazing job, and that’s all you, nothing to do with where you came from. Hell, you lasted longer than any other coordinator, and this wasn’t even what you thought you were coming here to do. Emerson and the other staff couldn’t speak more highly of you.”
I can no longer hold back my tears as the overwhelming reality sinks in. I knew I was running away from expectations, from the pressures my parents were putting on me, but until now, I didn’t realize how truly terribly it was affecting me. I don’t want to be the person that paper was talking about. I want to be the girl Deception Bay has allowed me to be for the past two weeks. Ive been filled with joy and a profound sense of freedom. The idea of living in my parents shadow again is unbearable. “You don’t get it. People will see me and treat me differently now. It doesn’t matter where I go, I can’t escape my family reputation.”
Brody pulls me in close, wrapping his arm around me. I allow myself to cry, burying my face in the softness of his shirt. His scent is so comforting. I don’t understand how it could be, but for now, I let him reassure me because it feels so nice to have someone care. “I’m sorry, sweet pea. This town is no place for secrets. Eventually, everyone’s dirty laundry gets aired out for all to see. Especially with the scumbags at Prescott Media running the paper.”
I can tell from his words that he has a clear understanding of the harsh reality of living in a town fueled by gossip and scandal. I wonder if that’s why he’s so closed off? Lifting my chin, I sneak a look at him, trying to pull myself together, knowing I’m being dramatic. This isn’t the worst thing that could happen to me, it just sucks. “Sounds like you know it firsthand.” I sniff.
His face is deadly serious. “The reason I know Emerson would never have done this is because I saw how terribly it crushed her when something similar happened to us just after our father died. His reputation was splashed all over the front page. Secrets that he should have taken to the grave out there for the whole town to see.”
I feel his pain deeply in my heart. I’m devastated for both him and Emerson. What a cruel thing for someone to do. This paper should be held accountable. How awful. “I’m so sorry, Brody, that’s a terrible thing to happen.”
His icy mask is cracking, revealing the burden of pain hes been carrying. I want to wrap my arms around him and take away his pain like he did for me. Instead, I find his hand and our fingers intertwine as we sit in silence, both lost deep in our thoughts. “It hurt Em more than me,” he says after some time, his words thick with pain. “I knew our dad was a lying, cheating bastard, but she didn’t, and it destroyed her image of her perfect father.”
I watch him, seeing the storm that brews inside when he thinks about his father. He hates him, that much is obvious. “That’s so sad. Why would anyone do that to you?”
“The same reason they’re doing it to you now. Scandal, the chance to sell a story; this town thrives on it. And the Prescotts, they’re rubbing their hands together, knowing this shit will sell.”
I’m close enough to him that I can feel his disgust for them, his body tense when he says that name. His blame falls to the paper, but someone had to give them the story. He said so himself that his father’s story was true. And mine is as well. “Someone close to you had to leak that story and mine. Only my closest friends here even know.”
Running his fingers through his hair, he thinks it over. “That we know of. Someone could have been to see your show and put two and two together. It’s a long shot, but it’s plausible.”
“I guess it doesn’t matter now anyway. It’s out, and I’m going to have to pull up my big girl panties and live with it.”
Brody continues to hold me close, his presence offering a small comfort. The sweet caring guy I met is still in there, he just hides it under his practiced boss fa?ade. I wish he could show it more often, because this guy is amazing. We sit in silence, listening to the birds chirping their happy songs in the park around us. Some kids play in the fountain, running through it, enjoying the last weekend of summer. I wish I could feel as good as them, being young and free, without a care in the world. That is how I should be. But I never had a childhood like that. There was never time to just have fun. I might only be twenty-three, but I feel like I have been working my entire life. I would never want that kind of life for my kids.
I wonder what my parents are doing right now. My mother is probably off at their country club with her girlfriends and my father in his study perfecting his production. I miss them, but if going back home means I must be who I was before, I don’t ever want to go back.
A happy couple wanders past us holding hands, reminding me we’re not alone. “Aren’t you worried someone might see us sitting here and misconstrue the situation?” I ask him, pulling away.
“I didn’t think about it. I was more worried about making sure you were okay.”
“Thank you for caring.” I stand, knowing I can’t waste any more of his time. He’s a busy man, and my silly problems aren’t for him to worry about.
“You’re still coming to work this afternoon?” he asks, unsure.
I glance at him, wondering what he thinks of me. “I’m not running away from my responsibilities because someone did this to me. But I am going to work out who did it and let them know how shitty it was.”
His face hardens, and I see the worry in his eyes. “Be careful, Gisele, we don’t know what we’re up against.”
Here we go again, him getting all overprotective of me. I raise a sassy brow. “Is there a threat I should be worried about? Or are you just carrying on with your normal bullshit?”
“I’m not sure,” he admits, his face deathly serious.
My eyes go wide. There is or he wouldn’t even be questioning it. “Brody, what the hell is going on?” I ask, suddenly feeling uneasy. I look over my shoulder to see if anyone’s watching us, but there’s no one who stands out. Suddenly I feel creeped out like there is.
He stands up, taking my hand. “I’m only telling you this because I don’t want you to get yourself hurt trying to fight battles you don’t understand, but there is something more going on with the hotel. At the reading of my father’s will, the lawyer pulled Emerson and me aside. He wanted us to be careful, keep an eye out for any trouble. He said the week before our father’s passing, he came in and changed details of his will. He was worried there was someone after him.”
Goosebumps run down my spine. “And you think there was?”
He nods. “This stays between us. I don’t want it getting out and staff or customers worrying. There has been no sign of a threat other than these articles, nothing even to worry about, but I just feel like it’s best to be cautious.”
“I would never tell a soul.” And I wouldn’t. But now I’m worried for him. It also explains his overly cautious attitude toward safety. He must be constantly looking over his shoulder, waiting for the threat to show. His father’s enemies might now be his.